Indie pub company saves popular watering hole in Greater Manchester

REGULARS  of a popular pub in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, are celebrating after  Stonegate Pub Company – the UK’s largest independent in the sector – moved in.

The company has taken over the Kings Hall on Station Road from previous owner JD Wetherspoon allaying fears for the future of the pub when “for sale” signs went up in May.

The change of ownership promises a fresh chapter for the once famous hall dating back to the 1930s and new opportunities including significant investment, which is being planned for the first quarter of 2017.
 
The King’s Hall is being closed for three days whilst JD Wetherspoon move out and Stonegate move in ready for reopening at 5pm tomorrow (Friday October 14) and while the new owners say there will not be a dramatic change from the start, especially in the staff that has all been retained, there will be a few noticeable changes including a new menu are all being prepared ready for the doors reopening.

Chief executive Simon Longbottom said: “We have a strong track record in picking sites that when we add a touch of Stonegate magic, customers love.
 
“We are already planning the next stage of the pub’s future with investment which will enhance the pubs offer and we’re looking forward to revealing those plans in the coming months. In the meantime it’s a huge welcome to the pub’s team and loyal customers whom we look forward in continuing to serve.”